Look for sales of garden supplies in May

“ON SALE IN MAY: Gardening supplies, luggage, jewelry, outdoor furniture, televisions, mattresses, silver and home-maintenance items.

“Camping season is officially under way. When you’re packing for your camping trip, use a coffee can with a plastic lid to hold matches, candles, cameras and other things that need to stay dry.

“”To clean a smudge off of cotton upholstery, try using a plain pencil eraser. Make sure it has not been used, as the lead or graphite can transfer. Use a brand-new one and the smudges usually come right off. Vacuum away any remaining rubber bits.” — P.D. in Arkansas

“Install a towel rack on the inside of your closet door. You can use it to hold scarves and belts, and even necklaces. It barely takes up any room at all.

“”Save pretty pictures from calendars to use as placemats. If you find one you really like, laminate it or take it to a copy shop to have it laminated. It brightens meals and makes cleanup a snap.” — C.B. in California

“”Use plastic containers (used for leftovers) to store children’s art supplies. They make it easy to see the crayons, markers, etc., and it’s easy for the kids to sort into. Cleaning up after my grandkids is no problem.” — E.L. in Rhode Island